“You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
John 8:32
Pastor John Writes:
A basic definition of “truth” is “the quality or state of being true; conformity with fact or reality.” In a world where we often deal with misleading statements and people who might be less than genuine, hearing the truth can be refreshing. Honesty, sincerity, and faithfulness are valuable these days.
On July 6 each year, we remember the martyrdom of John Hus in 1415. Many of his followers, known as the Unitas Fratrum, or Unity of the Brethren, eventually formed the community that would become the Moravian Church. For Hus, truth was not just an abstract idea to be debated. He knew the importance of God’s revealed truth in scripture and in Christ, which was a truth worth living for, and even dying for. Hus emphasized that believers should “seek the truth, hear the truth, learn the truth, love the truth, tell the truth, hold the truth, and defend the truth unto death.”
John Hus became known for his motto, which was essentially “Truth prevails” (Czech: Pravda vítězí), and his followers often connected John 8:32 with his witness and martyrdom. At a time when speaking against the corruption and misguided teachings of the church could cost a person everything, Hus remained faithful to what he believed scripture taught. Even when threatened, imprisoned, and ultimately condemned to death, he held to the truth he found in Christ.
Our faith assures us that true freedom comes from knowing and following the truth revealed in Jesus Christ. John Hus understood this freedom, and he understood that true freedom is not found in comfort, prestige, or safety. Still today, we are called to seek the truth, trust the truth, and live the truth.
May we seek the truth of our Savior and follow this truth faithfully. May God grant us wisdom, and grant us courage, to stand firm in faith and live the truth which sets us free.
Peace to you,
The Rev. John G. Rights
